Generic
Deferoxamine
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Deferoxamine is a parenteral iron chelator used for the treatment of acute iron intoxication and chronic iron overload due to transfusion-dependent anemias.
Description
Deferoxamine works in treating iron toxicity by binding trivalent (ferric) iron, forming ferrioxamine, a stable complex which is eliminated via the kidneys. 100 mg of deferoxamine is capable of binding approximately 8.5 mg of trivalent iron. Deferoxamine also works in treating aluminum toxicity by binding to tissue-bound aluminum to form aluminoxamine, a stable, water-soluble complex.
Indications
- Acute iron intoxication
- Chronic iron overload due to transfusion-dependent anemias
- Diagnosis of aluminum overload
- Chronic aluminum overload in End-Stage Renal Failure
Therapeutic class
Antidote preparations
Pharmacological class
Iron Chelator
Pharmacology
Deferoxamine binds trivalent (ferric) iron, forming ferrioxamine, a stable complex which is eliminated via the kidneys. 100 mg of deferoxamine is capable of binding approximately 8.5 mg of trivalent iron.
Mechanism of action
Deferoxamine binds to excess iron in the body, forming a stable complex that is excreted via the kidneys, reducing the risk of organ damage.
Dosage
Adult - Chronic iron overload: Subcutaneous or intravenous infusion. Dose is individualized. Maximum 6.0 grams in 24 hours.
Child: Dose is based on weight and clinical condition.
Administration
This medicine is given parenterally (subcutaneous, intramuscular or intravenous) by a healthcare professional. Kindly do not self administer.
Missed dose
Deferoxamine is an injection medicine given by healthcare professionals. You cannot miss a dose yourself. Do not miss your appointments with your doctor.
Side effects
Common: Flushing (sense of warmth in face, ears, neck and trunk), rash, decreased blood pressure, abdominal pain.
Serious: Visual and auditory disturbances, renal dysfunction, anaphylactoid reactions.
Precautions & warnings
Rapid IV injection (exceeding 15 mg/kg/h) has produced flushing, urticaria, hypotension and shock. Caution while driving (dizziness, visual disturbances). Caution with Vitamin C (avoid high doses in heart failure patients).
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity (except where desensitization is successful).
Drug interactions
Prochlorperazine: May lead to temporary impairment of consciousness.
Vitamin C: May enhance iron complex excretion (150-250 mg/day); higher doses produce no additional effect.
Erythropoietin: Dose adjustment may be needed.
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Deferoxamine. Please consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Deferoxamine may be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity. Should only be used if hazard of acute iron intoxication is greater than teratogenic hazard.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
It is not known whether Deferoxamine passes into breast milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dose is based on weight and clinical condition.
Geriatric use
Elderly patients require caution due to decreased renal function.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Use with caution. Not recommended in severe kidney disease.
Hepatic impairment: Limited information available. Please consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Since Deferoxamine is available only for parenteral administration, acute intoxication is unlikely to occur.
Storage conditions
Store between 15-25°C. Do not store above 25°C.
Chemical structure
Deferoxamine